The night was still as though exhausted from the heat of the day.

A serious conversation started between Lorilleux and Monsieur Madinier.

The ladies examined their dresses carefully to see if they had been stained.
Madame Lerat's fringe looked as though it had been dipped in the coffee.

Madame Fauconnier's chintz dress was spotted with gravy.

Mother Coupeau's green shawl, fallen from off a chair, was discovered in a corner, rolled up and trodden upon.